Old Sacramento: A Journey Back to the Gold Rush Era
Discover California's Gold Rush history in Old Sacramento: museums, historic sites, and riverfront charm await!
Step back in time in Old Sacramento, a 28-acre National Historic Landmark District on the Sacramento River. Experience the California Gold Rush with historic buildings, museums, shops, restaurants, and cobblestone streets, offering a unique blend of history and entertainment.
A brief summary to Old Sacramento
- Sacramento, Old Sacramento, California, US
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets and exploring the historic district.
- Visit during Gold Rush Days (Labor Day weekend) for a unique experience with dirt-covered streets and historical reenactments.
- Check out the Old Sacramento Underground Tours for a fascinating look at the city's original street level.
- Explore the California State Railroad Museum, one of the best museums in California, with interactive exhibits and restored trains.
- Enjoy the waterfront views and consider a riverboat tour for a relaxing experience.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Sacramento Valley Station (Amtrak), walk west through the parking lot towards 2nd Street. Old Sacramento Waterfront and the California State Railroad Museum will be on your left. The walk is approximately two blocks. There is no cost for walking.
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Public Transport
Take Sacramento Regional Transit bus routes 11, 30, 31, 62, 86 or 88. Get off at the 3rd St. stop between I and L Streets, which is one block from Old Sacramento Waterfront. A single ride fare is $2.50.
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Parking
Several parking options are available. Metered street parking is available throughout Old Sacramento Waterfront from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Garages include the Old Sacramento Garage (I Street between 3rd and 2nd) and the Tower Bridge Garage (Capitol Boulevard near the Tower Bridge). The Old Sacramento Garage charges $2 per half-hour from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., with a daily maximum of $13. From 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., the maximum is $7. A 24-hour rate is available for $20. Limited free on-street parking is also available.
Discover more about Old Sacramento
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ebner Hotel
0.2 km
Explore the historical significance of Ebner Hotel, a landmark in Old Sacramento, showcasing the charm and heritage of California's Gold Rush era.
Historic Lamp Posts
0.3 km
Discover the enchanting historic lamp posts of Old Sacramento, illuminating the charm and history of this vibrant district.
Lady Adams Building (California Historical Landmark No. 603)
0.3 km
Explore the Lady Adams Building, a historic landmark in Sacramento's Old Town, where the charm of the Gold Rush era comes to life.
Site of Orleans Hotel (California Historical Landmark No. 608)
0.3 km
Explore the rich history of Sacramento at the Site of Orleans Hotel, a key landmark from the Gold Rush era in Old Sacramento.
Central Pacific Railroad Freight Depot
0.3 km
Discover California's railroad history at the Central Pacific Railroad Freight Depot, a historic museum in Old Sacramento showcasing vintage trains and interactive exhibits.
Site of Home of Newton Booth (California Historical Landmark No. 596)
0.3 km
Discover the rich history of Sacramento at the Site of Home of Newton Booth, a California Historical Landmark that celebrates the legacy of its 19th-century governor.
Site of the Sam Brannan House
0.4 km
Explore the Sam Brannan House, a historical landmark in Old Sacramento, and delve into California's intriguing past through its architecture and rich stories.
Sacramento Visitor Center
0.4 km
Explore Sacramento through the Visitor Center: Your essential resource for the city's attractions, history, and culture.
B. F. Hastings Bank Building
0.4 km
Explore the B. F. Hastings Bank Building, a historical landmark in Old Sacramento that showcases California's rich banking heritage and architectural beauty.
Old Sacramento (California Historical Landmark 812)
0.5 km
Experience the charm of Old Sacramento, a historical landmark that echoes the Gold Rush era with its preserved architecture, museums, and vibrant atmosphere.
Sacramento's Original Street Level
0.5 km
Explore Sacramento's Original Street Level, a historical landmark that showcases the rich heritage and stories of California's vibrant capital city.
Big Four Building
0.6 km
Discover the Big Four Building, a historic landmark in Old Sacramento that embodies the spirit of the Gold Rush era and railway history.
Site of China Slough (California Historical Landmark No. 594)
0.6 km
Unearth the historical significance of the Site of China Slough, a cultural landmark in Sacramento that tells the story of Chinese heritage in California.
I Street Bridge
0.7 km
Discover the I Street Bridge in West Sacramento, a stunning landmark offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the city's vibrant culture.
California's First Passenger Railroad
0.7 km
Explore the rich history of California's First Passenger Railroad in Sacramento, where the journey of rail travel comes alive through captivating exhibits and stories.
Unmissable attractions to see
Old Sacramento Schoolhouse Museum
0.1 km
Experience 19th-century education in a living replica schoolhouse in Old Sacramento, where history comes to life for all ages.
Tower Bridge
0.1 km
Sacramento's iconic Tower Bridge: A blend of Art Deco design, engineering marvel, and symbol of California's capital city.
Waterfront Wheel
0.2 km
Enjoy panoramic views of Sacramento's historic waterfront from this whimsical, carnival-style Ferris wheel. A memorable experience for all ages!
Theodore Judah Monument
0.2 km
Honoring Theodore Judah, the visionary engineer who conquered the Sierra Nevada and paved the way for the Transcontinental Railroad in California.
Waterfront Park
0.2 km
Enjoy scenic river views, recreational activities, and historical charm at Sacramento's Waterfront Park in the heart of Old Sacramento.
What Cheer House
0.3 km
Discover the rich history and architectural beauty of What Cheer House in Old Sacramento, a must-visit historical landmark for every traveler.
O'Mally's Irish Pub
0.3 km
Experience the authentic taste of Ireland at O'Mally's Irish Pub in Old Sacramento, where hearty food, great brews, and a lively atmosphere await!
Old Sacramento Waterfront
0.3 km
Experience California's Gold Rush history at Old Sacramento Waterfront, a vibrant district with museums, shops, dining, and riverfront charm.
Crocker Art Museum
0.4 km
Explore California's art history and world art at the Crocker Art Museum, the oldest art museum in the West, in Sacramento.
Wells Fargo Museums
0.4 km
Explore the history of Wells Fargo and the American West in Old Sacramento, with tales of pioneers, gold, and the Pony Express.
River Walk Park
0.4 km
Enjoy scenic views, walking paths, and public art at this vibrant waterfront park in West Sacramento, offering recreation and relaxation for all.
Scavenger Hunt Walking Tours - Old Sacramento
0.4 km
Discover Old Sacramento's Gold Rush history through an engaging scavenger hunt walking tour, perfect for families and history enthusiasts.
Pony Express Statue
0.4 km
Explore the Pony Express Statue in Sacramento, a historic monument honoring the daring riders of the Pony Express and the spirit of the American West.
River City Saloon
0.5 km
Experience the Wild West in Old Sacramento's River City Saloon, where history, drinks, and good times flow freely.
Old Sacramento State Historic Park
0.5 km
Relive the Gold Rush era in Sacramento's historic district, with museums, train rides, and underground tours.
Essential places to dine
Joe's Crab Shack
0.1 km
Experience the joy of fresh seafood in a lively setting at Joe's Crab Shack in Old Sacramento.
Rio City Cafe
0.2 km
Experience delightful American cuisine at Rio City Cafe with stunning riverside views in historic Old Sacramento.
The Firehouse Restaurant
0.2 km
Indulge in fine dining at The Firehouse Restaurant, where historic elegance meets innovative New American cuisine in Old Sacramento.
Railroad Fish & Chips
0.2 km
Experience delicious seafood and classic American dishes at Railroad Fish & Chips in historic Old Sacramento.
ReUnion Kitchen & Bar
0.3 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at ReUnion Kitchen & Bar nestled in historic Old Sacramento - where comfort meets culinary creativity.
The Pilothouse Restaurant at the Delta King
0.3 km
Experience the charm of Sacramento at The Pilothouse Restaurant on the historic Delta King—where fine dining meets breathtaking river views.
Honey and The Trapcat
0.3 km
Savor classic American dishes at Honey and The Trapcat - a charming eatery nestled in historic Old Sacramento.
La Terraza
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant tastes of Mexico at La Terraza in Old Sacramento – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Bear & Crown British Pub
0.3 km
Discover the flavors of modern British cuisine at Bear & Crown Pub in Old Sacramento – your cozy retreat for food and drink.
Fanny Ann's Saloon
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Fanny Ann's Saloon in Old Sacramento – where great food meets lively entertainment.
Il Fornaio Sacramento
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Il Fornaio Sacramento - where tradition meets modern dining in the heart of California.
Foundation Restaurant & Bar
0.4 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Foundation Restaurant & Bar in Sacramento – where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
Yard House
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of New American cuisine at Yard House in Downtown Sacramento, where great food meets an energetic atmosphere.
House Kitchen & Bar
0.5 km
Experience vibrant American cuisine and exquisite cocktails at House Kitchen & Bar in Downtown Sacramento - your culinary haven awaits!
Camden Spit & Larder
0.6 km
Discover Camden Spit & Larder: A fine dining destination in Sacramento showcasing local flavors with innovative dishes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Old Sacramento Trading Post
0.2 km
Explore unique treasures and a rich historical ambiance at the Old Sacramento Trading Post, a top destination for novelty and antique finds.
Blu Nile Art
0.2 km
Explore Blu Nile Art: A unique gift shop and art gallery in Sacramento's Old Sacramento district, featuring fair trade handicrafts and local artistry.
Kolores
0.3 km
Discover Kolores, an enchanting gift shop in Old Sacramento, where unique home goods and extraordinary gifts celebrate the heart of California's capital.
Garden of Enchantment
0.3 km
Explore the whimsical Garden of Enchantment in Old Sacramento, where unique gifts and local artistry come together to create unforgettable memories.
Old Sac Shirts & Gifts
0.3 km
Explore Old Sac Shirts & Gifts for unique California souvenirs, T-shirts, and local crafts in Sacramento's historic district.
Evangeline's
0.3 km
Discover the charm of Evangeline's in Old Sacramento, where unique gifts and whimsical treasures await every visitor.
Mea Vita
0.3 km
Explore the unique charm of Mea Vita in Old Sacramento, where local crafts and artistry come together to create an unforgettable shopping experience.
Sacramento Shop - Atrium 916
0.3 km
Discover the artistic charm of Sacramento at Atrium 916, where creativity meets community in a delightful café and gallery experience.
Cali Way
0.4 km
Explore Cali Way in Old Sacramento for unique gifts and clothing that celebrate California's vibrant culture.
Visions of Eden
0.4 km
Explore Visions of Eden in Old Sacramento for unique gifts and local treasures that capture the spirit of your travels.
Pregame Vintage
0.8 km
Explore Pregame Vintage in Sacramento for an unparalleled selection of retro clothing and unique fashion finds that define timeless style.
Gearhead Gift Shop
1.2 km
Discover unique automotive gifts and memorabilia at the Gearhead Gift Shop, located inside the California Automobile Museum in Sacramento.
Capitol Books & Gifts
1.2 km
Explore Capitol Books & Gifts: A unique blend of shopping and local history in the heart of Sacramento.
The Constellation Marketplace
1.3 km
Explore The Constellation Marketplace in Sacramento for unique gifts, vintage clothing, and locally crafted treasures.
Old Gold
1.4 km
Shop unique and stylish clothing at Old Gold in Sacramento's WAL Public Market, a hub for local fashion and creativity.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Back Door
0.2 km
Discover the charm of The Back Door, a cozy bar in Old Sacramento, where craft drinks and a friendly atmosphere await your visit.
Vega's
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Vega's in Old Sacramento, a lively bar offering delicious drinks and a welcoming ambiance for all visitors.
Sean Finnegan's Pub
0.3 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and delicious drinks at Sean Finnegan's Pub in Old Sacramento, a perfect spot for tourists to unwind and mingle.
Brannan Manor Restaurant & Spirits
0.4 km
Discover the culinary treasures of Old Sacramento at Brannan Manor Restaurant & Spirits, where vibrant flavors meet a lively atmosphere.
The Other Office
0.4 km
Discover local charm and crafted cocktails at The Other Office, a cozy bar in the historic Old Sacramento district.
Last Stop Saloon
0.5 km
Discover Last Stop Saloon, a charming cocktail bar in Old Sacramento offering craft cocktails and a historic atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
Revival
0.7 km
Discover Revival, Sacramento's stylish lounge where craft cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere await for an unforgettable night out.
Fizz Champagne & Bubbles Bar
0.7 km
Fizz Champagne & Bubbles Bar offers an exquisite selection of sparkling wines in a chic, vibrant atmosphere, perfect for celebrations or casual gatherings.
Malt & Mash | Irish Pub
0.8 km
Discover the authentic Irish experience at Malt & Mash, where delicious food, lively music, and a warm atmosphere await in Downtown Sacramento.
Chambers Room
0.9 km
Discover the Chambers Room, a charming bar in downtown Sacramento, offering crafted cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere for the perfect night out.
Ten Ten Room
1.1 km
Experience the art of cocktail-making at Ten Ten Room, Sacramento's favorite cocktail bar known for its creative drinks and lively atmosphere.
Dive Bar
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Sacramento at Dive Bar, where craft cocktails and a unique ambiance await you.
Smic's Bar Sacramento
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Smic's Bar Sacramento, where exceptional cocktails meet a lively atmosphere in the heart of downtown.
The Shady Lady Saloon
1.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Shady Lady Saloon in downtown Sacramento, where unique decor and delicious drinks await every traveler.
The Roost
1.8 km
Discover Sacramento's vibrant cocktail scene at The Roost, where mixology meets a welcoming atmosphere for the ultimate drink experience.
